The clashes between rival US-backed militias in eastern Syria have exposed divisions within the coalition that has kept ISIS at bay. The violence highlights tensions between Kurds and Arabs, potentially allowing Syrian President Bashar Assad, Russia, and Iran to gain influence in the oil-rich region. The clashes involve the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) and an Arab-led faction, with Kurdish leaders accusing Iranian-backed militias and the Syrian government of inciting the violence.